Key Messages
- Fertilisation is the process of an ovum (egg) and a sperm joining.
- The growth of the embryo and foetus will go through specific stages until the birth of the baby, which occurs around nine months later.
Learning Intention
Students will: Consolidate knowledge on the sequence of events from conception to birth.
Time
20 minutes
Required Resources
- One set of ‘Pregnancy and Birth Timeline' cards per group.
Teaching Notes
This activity can be set up in several ways. The ‘Pregnancy and Birth Timeline' cards can be placed on the floor with students sitting in a circle around them. Alternatively, the cards can be placed on the whiteboard or held up by students standing in a line.
Please note: Ensure the correct terms for body parts are used.
Procedure
- Students to familiarise themselves with the ‘Pregnancy and Birth
Timeline' cards. Inform students that the cards identify 10 different
stages, from fertilisation to birth. Please note: These have been
published in the correct order. - Students to place the cards in the correct order. This can be completed a number of ways. One at a time, students can place a card in the correct position. Alternatively, one student could move the cards around with the class directing them. To use another approach, a group of students could each hold a card and organise themselves into the right order. This could be done with students talking, or as a silent activity.
- You may also choose to bring in and pass around an ultrasound picture to discuss with younger students.
Questioning
- Discuss some of the physical changes that occur during pregnancy
including those that occur to the foetus and the pregnant person. - How might a pregnant person feel during and after pregnancy?
- Who may a pregnant person go to for help during pregnancy?
- What people or sources of information can an individual access if
they have any further questions?